How important is willpower?

What's Up Docs?

Mar 25, 2025•29 min•Ep. 3

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Episode description

In a new podcast from BBC Radio 4, doctors and identical twins Chris and Xand van Tulleken explore every aspect of our health and wellbeing. In this episode they want to know about willpower. What does it do? Can any of us get better at doing difficult things?

Guest Kimberley Wilson, a chartered psychologist, says it's the biggest question and longest standing issue in psychology and philosophy. Does willpower even exist?

If you want to get in touch with us, you can email at whatsupdocs@bbc.co.uk

And we are also on WhatsApp where you can send a message on 08000 665123

Presenters: Drs Chris and Xand van Tulleken Guest: Kimberley Wilson Producer: Jo Rowntree Executive Producer: Rami Tzabar Editor: Kirsten Lass Assistant Producer: Maia Miller-Lewis Researcher: Lisa Lipman Tech Lead: Reuben Huxtable Composer: Phoebe McFarlane Commissioning Editor: Rhian Roberts A Loftus Media production for BBC Radio 4

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